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Friday, May 15, 2009
2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival Honors New Italian Actor Francesco Mistichelli with Inaugural Discovery Award

Thursday, April 30, 2009
2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival Honors Kimberlee Bassford with Spirit of Humanity Award for Film "Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority"

Thursday, April 23, 2009
Nominees of 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival Awards Announced

Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Bill Plympton to be Honored with El Dorado Award at 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival

Monday, April 20, 2009
2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival to Close with Karen Kingsbury's "Like Dandelion Dust" by American Director Jon Gunn, May 23, 2009, Faye Spanos Concert Hall

Friday, April 10, 2009
2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival to Open with "Marcello Marcello" by Italian-Swiss Director Denis Rabaglia at Historic Bob Hope (Fox) Theatre

Friday, March 20, 2009
1st California Documentary Festival Announces Worldwide Call for Entries

Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Thomas Woschitz's "Universalove" is the Centerpiece of the 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival

Friday, March 13, 2009
2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival Unveils First 100 Films

Monday, March 2, 2009
Cinema Room March 2009 Line-Up, Opening with "Kassim the Dream" March 5th, 7PM, Films on African Experiences and Award-Winning Short Films from SJIFF 2008

Friday, January 16, 2009
Brieanne Jansen to Speak at SJCFF 2009 Young Actor's Studio Program, Empire Theatre, January 18th, 2PM

2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival Honors New Italian Actor Francesco Mistichelli with Inaugural Discovery Award

Published: Friday, May 15, 2009

Stockton, California, USA - The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival of the San Joaquin Film Society honored new Italian actor Francesco Mistichelli with its inaugural Discovery Award at its Opening Night Gala on May 14, 2009 at the historic Bob Hope Theatre. The award was presented to Mistichelli prior to the Northern California premiere of Denis Rabaglia's "Marcello Marcello," in which Mistichelli played the memorable leading role in his first feature film performance.

Francesco Mistichelli Accepts Discovery Award 2009
Amanda King, Mistress of Ceremony; Francesco Mistichelli, Recipient of SJIFF Discovery Award 2009; Sophoan Sorn, Founder and Creator of Festivals of the San Joaquin Film Society

The Discovery Award honors a striking new talent that is being introduced on the international scene.

Born in Pescara, Italy, raised in Palermo and currently works in Rome, Mistichelli was selected from a pool of 1,200 auditions for the leading role. He is slated to appear in Federico Moccia's next film "Scusa ma ti voglio sposare."

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2), the flagship annual exhibition of the San Joaquin Film Society taking place May 14 to 23, 2009 - is a glorious world showcase of new and innovative works from emerging talents and seasoned international artists, presented in various venues across the city of Stockton in the heart of California's Central Valley. SJIFF2 will feature: red carpet premieres; new independent American and world films; Animania - a cinematic spotlight on animated cinema; tributes to celebrated and rising filmmakers; an exhilarating collection of the world's top short-length films from new and accomplished directors; educational programs, panels, interactive discussions; family events and programmes; a cultural family day at the museum; guest celebrities, entertainment and industry luminaries, and filmmakers from around the nation and the world; galas and festive parties; and diverse programs for all ages.

Official Festival Website: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09
Films: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/films.html
Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS), home of the San Joaquin International Film Festival, celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals, films, and educational programs. For 2009, in addition to the international film festival in May, SJFS launched an ambitious year of events that includes the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival in January, the 1st California International Documentary Film Festival in the Fall, year-round cinema programs, special events, and educational programs. SJFS is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking; and to bringing the world of cinema to the culturally-rich Central Valley audiences.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival Honors Kimberlee Bassford with Spirit of Humanity Award for Film "Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority"

Published: Thursday, April 30, 2009

Stockton, California, USA - The San Joaquin Film Society will be honoring Hawaiian-American director, Kimberlee Bassford, with the 2009 Spirit of Humanity Award, for her documentary film "Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority." The award honors a filmmaker who uses film as an important instrument to advance, celebrate, and promote humanity. The screening of the film will take place at 6:00PM on Friday, May 15, 2009 at the Stockton Empire Theatre (1825 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, California 95204). Director Bassford is expected to be in attendance to accept the award, and take part in a Q&A session with the audience, after the screening.

Admission
• $10.00 General
• $9.00 Senior 65+ / Student
• $8.00 Members

Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT "PATSY MINK: AHEAD OF THE MAJORITY"

"Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority," a California Central Valley Premiere at SJIFF2, explores the remarkable story of Patsy Mink, an Asian American woman who, battling racism and sexism, redefined American politics. Small in stature but a giant in vision, she began her life on a Maui sugar plantation and rose to become the first Asian American woman and woman of color in the United States Congress. A firecracker and a fighter, she continually pushed the limits of what was acceptable, speaking out against the Vietnam War and entering the 1972 presidential primary, making her one of the first women to seek the nation’s highest office. She transformed America’s schools as the co-author of Title IX, the landmark legislation that opened up higher education and athletics to women.

The film goes beyond Mink’s accomplishments, however, to reveal a woman whose political journey was lonely and tumultuous. Dispelling stereotypes of the compliant Japanese female, she battled sexism within her own party, whose leaders disliked her independent style and openly maneuvered against her. Her liberal politics, particularly her vocal opposition to the Vietnam War, engendered intense criticism. As Franklin Odo, Director of the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Program, states: “Patsy Mink offers a phenomenal political story, because she was so outside what you would expect of a woman, of a Japanese American and of a member of Congress.” Simultaneously a woman of the people and a pioneer, a patriot and an outcast, her story proves endlessly intriguing, and one that embodies the history, ideals and spirit of America. (54 min., USA, In English)

"Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority" had its World Premiere at the Louis Vuitton Hawaii International Film Festival in October 2008, where it won the Audience Award for Favorite Documentary and was nominated for the Golden Orchid Award for Best Documentary. Earlier this month, it won Best Documentary, Best Hawaiian Film and Gold Kahuna Award at the Honolulu International Film Festival. The film is now running in the Documentary Competition at the 2nd San Joaquin International FIlm Festival.

• Film's Official page: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/f-patsy.html
• For high-quality images from film: www.sjiff.org/filmstills.html

ABOUT KIMBERLEE BASSFORD

Kimberlee Bassford is an award-winning independent filmmaker from Hawai‘i who has a passion for social issue and cultural stories. She produced, directed, wrote and co-edited "Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority" (2008). Most recently, Bassford was a producer on "Unnatural Causes" (2008), a documentary series and public engagement campaign that investigates our disturbing socioeconomic and racial disparities in health. She was also a producer on "The Meaning of Food" (2005), a series that explores the social significance of food in the United States. Her directorial debut, "Cheerleader" (2003), about a squad of young, bright-eyed California cheerleaders on a quest for national championships: aired on HBO Family; won a Student Oscar®; and screened at festivals around the world, including the Kodak Emerging Filmmaker Showcase at Festival de Cannes. A graduate of Punahou School, she holds a BA in Psychology from Harvard University and a Masters in Journalism from the University of California Berkeley. She owns Making Waves Films LLC, a documentary production company in Honolulu, Hawai'i.

The Spirit of Humanity Award was created in 2008. The previous honoree was Almudena Carracedo (2008) and her Emmy® Award-winning documentary film "Made in L.A."

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2), the flagship annual exhibition of the San Joaquin Film Society taking place May 14 to 23, 2009 - is a glorious world showcase of new and innovative works from emerging talents and seasoned international artists, presented in various venues across the city of Stockton in the heart of California's Central Valley. SJIFF2 will feature: red carpet premieres; new independent American and world films; Animania - a cinematic spotlight on animated cinema; tributes to celebrated and rising filmmakers; an exhilarating collection of the world's top short-length films from new and accomplished directors; educational programs, panels, interactive discussions; family events and programmes; a cultural family day at the museum; guest celebrities, entertainment and industry luminaries, and filmmakers from around the nation and the world; world-class galas and festive parties; and diverse programs for all ages.

Official Festival Website: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09
Films: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/films.html
Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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Nominees of 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival Awards Announced

Published: Thursday, April 23, 2009

Stockton, California, USA - The San Joaquin Film Society is proud to announce the nominated films of the 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival Awards. Winnings films are selected by a distinguished jury of film artists and industry professionals, and will be honored at the festival's Opening Night Gala during the Opening Ceremony on May 14, 2009 at 7:00PM, at the Bob Hope (Fox) Theatre (242 E. Main Street, Stockton CA, 95202).

The nominated films are:

Best Narrative Film

• "Cherry Blossoms" - Dir. Doris Dörrie (Germany, Japan)
• "Like Dandelion Dust" - Dir. Jon Gunn (USA)
• "Marcello Marcello" - Dir. Denis Rabaglia (Switzerland, Italy)
• "Universalove" - Dir. Thomas Woschitz (Austria, Luxembourg, Serbia)

Best Documentary Film

• "D Tour" - Dir. Jim Granato (USA)
• "Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority" - Dir. Kimberlee Bassford (USA)
• "Veer" - Dir. Greg Fredette (USA)
• "The Young Romantic: A Portrait of Yundi Li" - Dir. Barbara Willis Sweete (Canada, China, Germany)

Best Narrative Short Film

• "The Aviatrix" - Dir. Toddy Burton (USA)
• "Haber" - Dir. Daniel Ragussis (USA)
• "Memphis Calling" - Dir. Colin Mitchell USA)
• "Para Asia" - Dir. Fran Borgia (Singapore)
• "The Pond" - Dir. Sonja Phillips (United Kingdom)

Best Documentary Short Film

• "12 Notes Down" - Dir. Andreas Koefoed (Denmark)
• "Anita's Africa" - Dir. Beverley Reid (Canada, Uganda)
• "If A Body Meets a Body" - Dir. Brian Davis (USA)

Best Animated Short Film

• "Chicory 'n' Coffee" - Dir. Dusan Kastelic (Slovenia)
• "Fly Out Blue" - Dir. Jack "Ming-Huei" Shih (Taiwan)
• "Hot Dog" - Dir. Bill Plympton (USA)
• "KuyGorozh" - Dir. Sergey Merinov (Russia)

Best Experimental Short Film

• "Flying Lessons" - Dir. Rosane Chamecki, Phil Harder, Andrea Lerner (USA)
• "Oh, Simone" - Dir. Stuart Gatt (United Kingdom)
• "Slow" - Dir. Kurt Kuenne (USA)
• "Standing Start" - Dir. Adrian McDowall, Finlay Pretsell (United Kingdom)

Best Student Short Film

• "27,000 Days" - Dir. Naveen Singh (USA)
• "Kid" - Dir. Miguel Alvarez (USA)
• "My Dad Ralph" - Dir. Nicholas Wong (Canada)
• "The Watchman and the Little Girl" - Dir. Christoph Englert (Germany)

Members of the jury are:

Narrative Feature Competition

• Misha McLaird, PhD
(Director of Acquisitions, Las Américas Film Network)
• Chris Wiggum
(Director of Public Relations and Business Development, Global Film Initiative)

Documentary Feature Competition

• Kristy Guevara-Flanagan
(Documentary Director)
• Teresa Hagen
(Owner, Cut Loose Productions)

Short Films Competition

• Erahm Christopher
(Director, Writer, and Producer)
• Jessica Sison
(Documentary Filmmaker and Editor)

For detailed profile of each juror, visit www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/awards.html

- For details on Opening Night Gala and Party, featuring "Marcello Marcello," visit www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/f-marcello.html
- For tickets, visit www.sjiff.org/tickets or www.bobhopetheatre.com

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2), the flagship annual exhibition of the San Joaquin Film Society taking place May 14 to 23, 2009 - is a glorious world showcase of new and innovative works from emerging talents and seasoned international artists, presented in various venues across the city of Stockton in the heart of California's Central Valley. SJIFF2 will feature: red carpet international premieres; new independent American and world films; Animania - a cinematic spotlight on animated cinema; tributes to celebrated and rising filmmakers; an exhilarating collection of the world's top short-length films from new and accomplished directors; educational programs, panels, interactive discussions; family events and programmes; a cultural family day at the museum; guest celebrities, entertainment and industry luminaries, and filmmakers from around the nation and the world; world-class galas and festive parties; and diverse programs for all ages.

Official Festival Website: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09
Films: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/films.html
Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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Bill Plympton to be Honored with El Dorado Award at 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival

Published: Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Stockton, California, USA - The San Joaquin Film Society announces that Academy Award-nominated, "Indie Animation King" Bill Plympton will receive the inaugural El Dorado Award at the 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2, May 14-23). The El Dorado Award honors an exceptional artist whose artistry, creativity, and originality has made a tremendous impact on independent cinema. The award will be presented to Mr. Plympton at the Central Valley Premiere screening of his latest animated feature "Idiots and Angels," on Saturday, May 16, 2009, 6:30PM, at the Stockton Empire Theatre (1825 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95202).

The next morning, Mr. Plympton will present a Master Class at the festival's annual Filmmakers and VIP Brunch on Sunday, May 17, 2009, 10:00AM at the Matinée Movie Lounge. At the in-depth seminar, Mr. Plympton will share his artistic and business experiences in animated cinema, demonstrate with live drawings, screen exclusive short films from his repertoire, and interact in a Q&A session with the audience.

Admission
El Dorado Award / "Idiots and Angels"
• $10.00 General
• $9.00 Senior 65+ / Student
• $8.00 Members
Filmmakers and VIP Brunch
• $25.00 General / Senior 65+ / Student
• $20.00 Members

Tickets go on sale Friday, April 24, 2009 online at www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT "IDIOTS AND ANGELS"

Synopsis: Angel is a selfish, abusive, morally bankrupt man who hangs out as his local bar, berating the other patrons. One day, Angel mysteriously wakes up with a pair of wings on his back. The wings make him do good deeds, contrary to his nature. He desperately tries to rid himself of the good wings, but eventually finds himself fighting those who view the wings as their ticket to fame and fortune. (USA, 2008, 78 minutes)

Screening at major festivals around the world - "Idiots and Angels" had its World Premiere at the 2008 Tribeca Film Festival. It was honored with a Special Distinction Award at the prestigious 2008 Annecy International Animation Festival in France. In Porto, Portugal in March 2009, the film was awarded the Grand Prize at FantasPorto, one of the biggest film festivals in Europe. The El Dorado Award screening of "Idiots and Angels" at SJIFF2 in Stockton will be the film's first presentation to an audience in California's 400-mile Central Valley.

• Film's Official page: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/f-iangels.html
• For high-quality images from film: www.sjiff.org/filmstills.html

ABOUT DIRECTOR BILL PLYMPTON

Bill Plympton was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. He moved to New York City, upon graduation from Portland State University in Graphic Design. He began his career creating cartoons for publications such as New York Times, National Lampoon, Playboy and Screw. In 1987 he was nominated for an Oscar® for his short Your Face. After producing many shorts which appeared on MTV and Spike and Mike's, he turned his talent to features. Since 1991 he's made 9 feature films, 6 of them, The Tune, Mondo Plympton, I Married A Strange Person, Mutant Aliens, Hair High and Idiots and Angels. In 2005, Bill's received another Oscar® nomination, this time for a short film Guard Dog.

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2) runs May 14 to 23, 2009 in various venues across the city of Stockton, California, and will feature over 120 films from 40 countries. As California Central Valley's biggest celebration of global cinema, SJIFF2 will feature: red carpet international premieres; new independent American and world films; Animania - a cinematic spotlight on animated cinema; tributes to celebrated and rising filmmakers; an exhilarating collection of the world's top short-length films from new and accomplished directors; educational programs, panels, interactive discussions; family events and programmes; a cultural family day at the museum; guest celebrities, entertainment and industry luminaries, and filmmakers from around the nation and the world; world-class galas and festive parties; and diverse programs for all ages.

Official Festival Website: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09
Films: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/films.html
Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS), home of the San Joaquin International Film Festival, celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals, films, and educational programs. For 2009, in addition to the international film festival in May, SJFS launched an ambitious year of events that includes the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival in January, the 1st California International Documentary Film Festival in the Fall, year-round cinema programs, special events, and educational programs. SJFS is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking; and to bringing the world's best cinema to the culturally-rich, Valley communities.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival to Close with Karen Kingsbury's "Like Dandelion Dust" by American Director Jon Gunn, May 23, 2009, Faye Spanos Concert Hall

Published: Monday, April 20, 2009

Stockton, California, USA - The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2), the ten-day flagship festival of the San Joaquin Film Society, will wrap with the California Central Valley premiere of Karen Kingsbury's "Like Dandelion Dust," based on the best-selling novel and directed by Jon Gunn: A heart-warming film from Downes Brothers Entertainment starring Academy Award-winning Mira Sorvino, Barry Pepper, Sacramento-born Kate Levering, Maxwell Perry Cotton, and Cole Hauser - about the struggle of the blue-collar Porter family and the privileged Campbell family as their lives intersect for the love of a little boy. "Like Dandelion Dust" will screen at the Closing Night of the California Central Valley's biggest film festival, beginning at 7:30PM on Saturday, May 23, 2009 at the majestic Faye Spanos Concert Hall at University of the Pacific (3601 Pacific Avenue - Corner of Pacific and Dave Brubeck Way - Stockton CA, 95211, USA).

Red Carpet Welcome at 6:30PM. Director Jon Gunn, Producer Kevin Downes, Producer Bobby Downes, Producer Kerry David, Executive Producer Chris Morrow, among others are expected to be in attendance.

At 7:00PM, follow the red carpet to an memorable Closing Night Gala, opening with a special presentation of souvenir images and footages from SJIFF2 and the festival Audience Awards to winning films selected by the festival patrons. The crown jewel of the evening is the premiere presentation of "Like Dandelion’s Dust."

At 9:30PM, the Closing Night Party kicks off at the sparkling new open-sky promenade of Centrale Kitchen and Bar (1825 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204) for a star-studded evening of scrumptious appetizers, cool drinks, and lively entertainment and dance!

• Film's Official page: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/f-dandelion.html
• For high-quality images from film: www.sjiff.org/filmstills.html

Admission:
- Closing Night Show Only: $15.00 / $12.00*
- Closing Night Show + Party: $35.00
- Closing Night Party Only: $25.00

Opening Night tickets go on sale Friday, April 24th via www.pacifictigers.tix.com or by phone at (209) 946-2474.

Tickets can now be reserved online at www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/f-dandelion.html

*Denotes admission cost for: Members, Students, Seniors 65+ / Disabled Person.

For all SJIFF2 tickets sales and ticket updates, visit www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT "LIKE DANDELION DUST"

Like Dandelion Dust (2009): Based on the best-selling novel by America's leading inspirational novelist Karen Kingsbury, the film is a compelling drama that explores the different meanings of being a parent through the grittily realistic lives of the struggling, blue collar Porter's, and the privileged Campbell family. Their lives intersect, intertwine and collide, all for the love of a little boy. This film is wonderfully acted, bravely exposing the humanity in each character and reminding us that we each have the potential to be the best and worst versions of ourselves at any time. (Downes Brothers Entertainment, 100 mins., USA, English)

"Like Dandelion Dust" held its World Premiere at the 20th Palm Springs International Film Festival in January 2009, and was selected for its Best of Fest programme. The film went on to be feted with the Audience Award for Best Feature at the Sedona International Film Festival, the Grand Jury Best Feature at the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival, the Audience Award for Best Feature at Vail Film Festival, the Audience Award for Best Feature at the Sonoma International Film Festival, and the Audience Award and Grand Jury Best Feature at the Las Vegas International Film Festival. The film comes to its first presentation to an audience in California’s 400-mile Central Valley at the Closing Night Gala of SJIFF2.

ABOUT DIRECTOR JON GUNN

American Writer, Director and Editor Jon Gunn made his feature film debut in 2000 with Mercy Streets. Before being released in theaters, Mercy Streets received the Best Feature Film award at the What You See is What You Get Festival, and the Movie Guide Award for “10 Best Films of 2000”.

His next feature, My Date with Drew, had a worldwide theatrical release in the summer of 2005 and won the Audience Award for Best Feature at the HBO Comedy Arts Festival, NY Gen Art Film Festival, and Vail Film Festival. It also swept the 2005 Sonoma Film Festival, winning three awards, including the Jury Prize for Best Feature. My Date With Drew beat Napoleon Dynamite, Super Size Me and Garden State for Best Feature, and was listed on www.the-numbers.com as the fifth most profitable film of all times.

Gunn co-wrote Ian the Vampire and a comedy The Final Four, both currently in development at Fox Searchlight, where he has a blind script deal. He is now writing Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians for Dreamworks Animation.

In 2002, Gunn teamed up with producer Kerry David (Executive Producer, Agent Cody Banks; Producer, upcoming Don Cheadle Miles Davis project) to create Lucky Crow Films. They have produced both film and television projects, optioned numerous literary properties, and are currently in pre-production on a number of feature projects, including Why Beulah Shot her Pistol Inside The Baptist Church, a dark comedy adapted by Gail Gilchriest (My Dog Skip) from the novel by Clayton Sullivan.

Gunn and David also co-own IndieProducer (www.indieproducer.net), a renown, worldwide filmmaking community created to discover, educate and support new and emerging talent in film.

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Official Festival Website: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09
Films: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/films.html
Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

Closing Night Partners: Venue sponsored by the Film Studies at University of the Pacific; Film contributed by Downes Brothers Entertainment; Executive Partner is the International Programs and Services at University of the Pacific. For additional partners, visit www.sjiff.org/sponsors.html

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS), home of the San Joaquin International Film Festival, celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals, films, and educational programs. For 2009, in addition to the international film festival in May, SJFS launched an ambitious year of events that includes the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival in January, the 1st California International Documentary Film Festival in the Fall, year-round cinema programs, special events, and educational programs. SJFS is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking; and to bringing the world's best cinema to the culturally-rich, Valley communities.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival to Open with "Marcello Marcello" by Italian-Swiss Director Denis Rabaglia, May 14, 2009 at historic Bob Hope (Fox) Theatre

Published: Friday, April 10, 2009, Revised: Sunday, April 19, 2009**

Stockton, California, USA - The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2), the ten-day flagship festival of the San Joaquin Film Society, will kick-off with the Northern California premiere of Denis Rabaglia's "Marcello Marcello": A heart-warming romantic comedy that follows a teen boy's frantic adventure to find a gift for the father of a beautiful young woman he adores. "Marcello Marcello" will screen at the Opening Night of the California Central Valley's biggest film festival, beginning at 7:00PM on Thursday, May 14, 2009 at the historic Bob Hope (Fox) Theatre (242 E. Main St. Stockton CA, 95202, USA).

**Official Red Carpet Ribbon Cutting at 6:00PM. Principle actor Francesco Mistichelli is expected to be in attendance.

At 7:00PM, follow the red carpet to an extraordinary evening with: a special compilation of clips from SJIFF2 films; presentation of prizes to award-winning films of SJIFF2 selected by a distinguished jury; the Opening short film "Para Asia" (USA Premiere) by Spanish-Singaporean director Fran Borgia; and the presence of celebrated filmmakers and innovators from around the world - all leading up to the Northern California Premiere of "Marcello Marcello."

At 9:30PM proceed to the theatre's mezzanine for a Mediterranean-inspired night of glitz, glamour, and glorious times at the annual "With the Stars" Opening Night Party. Experience festive live music, dance and entertainment. Savor a collection of scrumptious international cuisine, appetizers, desserts, and cocktails from Downtown Stockton restaurants - paired with the finest wine from vineyards of the San Joaquin Valley.

• Film's Official page: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/f-marcello.html
• For high-quality images from film: www.sjiff.org/filmstills.html

Admission:
- Opening Night Show Only: $20.00 / $18.00*
- Opening Night Show + "With the Stars" Party: $45.00 / $45.00*
- "With the Stars" Party Only: $30.00 / $30.00*

Opening Night tickets go on sale Friday, April 17th via www.bobhopetheatre.com or by phone at (209) 337-4673.

*Denotes admission cost for: Members, Students, Seniors 65+ / Disabled Person.

For all SJIFF2 tickets, visit www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT "MARCELLO MARCELLO"

Marcello Marcello (2008): Based on an original novel entitled Marcello's Date by British-born musician and author Mark David Hatwood. "The setting is Italy, 1956. In the picturesque island of Amatrello, a unique custom keeps the young men of the village busy: when a girl turns eighteen, every boy is invited to bring a gift for her first date. However the gift is not for the girl, but for the father... who will ultimately determine which boy takes her on her first rendez-vous! Eighteen-year-old fisherman's son Marcello does not care about this tradition until he sets eyes on the enchanting Elena, the daughter of the Mayor, who has returned to the island and - according to the tradition - has come of age. As time runs out and competition rises, Marcello comes up with the perfect gift for the Mayor. But getting that gift isn't easy... Soon, he is forced to barter with the entire village, as everyone seems to want something from someone else... Marcello's frantic quest ensues, evolving into a process of reconciliation among the village's inhabitants." (C-Films Production, Switzerland, Germany, Italy; In Italian with English Subtitles)

"Marcello Marcello" held its World Premiere in front of 8,000 spectators on August 12, 2008 at the breathtaking open-sky Piazza Grande cinema of the 61st Locarno International Film Festival, one of the world's leading film festivals, held in Switzerland. The film went on to receive theatrical release across Switzerland in October 2008. In January 2009, it made its North American Premiere at the prestigious 20th Palm Springs International Film Festival, where it was among the Best of Fest selections. Recently, the film made its East Coast Premiere at the 18th Philadelphia Film Festival. The Opening Night screening of "Marcello Marcello" at SJIFF2 in Stockton will be the film's first presentation to an audience in Northern California.

ABOUT DIRECTOR DENIS RABAGLIA

Italian-Swiss director Denis Rabaglia, born in 1966, has been making short and medium-length films since he was 15 years old. A well-known director for the big and small screens, he has made two comedies for Swiss television: Grossesse Nerveuse (1994) with Tom Novembre and Patrick Braoudé, which won him the Prix Max Ophüls, and Pas de Panique (2007), with Frédéric Diefenthal and Roland Giraud, which took the Best Swiss TV Film prize at the Geneva Cinéma Tout Ecran. With theatrical feature films, he has directed: Azzurro (2001), which was a popular success worldwide and garnered numerous prizes, including Best Swiss Fiction Film. His latest feature work is Marcello Marcello (2008).

After 1,200 auditions for the cast of Marcello Marcello, Director Denis Rabaglia selected professional actor Francesco Mistichelli from Pescara, Italy, who took extensive vocal training to master the Neapolitan accent as needed for the film.

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Official Festival Website: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09
Films: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/films.html
Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

Opening Night Partners: Venue sponsored by the City of Stockton; Guest Artist sponsored by the International Programs and Services at University of the Pacific; Food procured by the Downtown Stockton Alliance. For additional partners, visit www.sjiff.org/sponsors.html

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS), home of the San Joaquin International Film Festival, celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals, films, and educational programs. For 2009, in addition to the international film festival in May, SJFS launched an ambitious year of events that includes the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival in January, the 1st California International Documentary Film Festival in the Fall, year-round cinema programs, special events, and educational programs. SJFS is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking; and to bringing the world's best cinema to the culturally-rich, Valley communities.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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Thomas Woschitz's "Universalove" is the Centerpiece of the 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival

Published: Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Stockton, California, USA - The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2) of the San Joaquin Film Society, is proud to announce that its Centerpiece film will be the West Coast USA premiere of "Universalove," directed by Austrian filmmaker Thomas Woschitz, featuring original music by Austrian indie rock band Naked Lunch. At the heart of the festival, the film selected for the Centerpiece program, is a cinematic story that captures the essence of humanity, power of expression, and universality of cinema arts. "Universalove" will screen at 3:30PM on Sunday, May 17, 2009 at the Stockton Empire Theatre (1825 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, California 95204).

Film details: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/f-universalove.html
For high-quality images from film: www.sjiff.org/filmstills.html

Universalove

ABOUT "UNIVERSALOVE"

"Universalove" is a global love story. Six episodes in six different places of the world are told in a symbiosis of modern story-telling and popular music. "Universalove" is an experiment - a global love story. The interwoven storylines are located in Brooklyn, Rio de Janeiro, Tokyo, Belgrade, Marseille and Luxembourg. The laconic narrative style captures moments that set the viewer on a journey around the globe and deep into the emotional worlds of very different characters affiliated with different cultural spheres and languages. In Marseille, Julie's heart beats wildly when thinking of Rashid. In Tokyo, Satoshi dreams about his adored one who works in a soup restaurant but who doesn't even know who he is. In Rio de Janeiro, Maria falls for a Telenovela star. In Belgrade, a couple fight for their very existence. In Brooklyn, the thoughts of a black taxi driver lead him into the emotional abyss of jealous love. In Luxembourg, a well-settled gentleman finally comes around to showing his true feelings for a young man... Love happens. Love takes place. Strange love. True love. Crazy love. Desperate Love. Everywhere, every moment.

According to Director Thomas Woschitz: "Universalove is a love story. It's a journey around the world with all kinds of people, sharing the same feelings. Everything is possible everywhere at the same moment. But, after all, it’s a musical for people who would never watch a musical.“ (source: www.kgp.co.at)

"Universalove" held its World Premiere in the Vanguard program of the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival. In January 2009, it screened at the Berlin International Film Festival. In February 2009, it was awarded the prestigious Max-Ophüls Preis at the 30th Filmfestival Max Ophüls Preis in Saarbrücken, Germany - a festival regarded as "the most important forum for promoting new talents from Germany, Austria and Switzerland." Recently, "Universalove" made its USA Premiere at the 2009 Miami International Film Festival. The Centerpiece screening of "Universalove" at SJIFF2 is the film's western America debut.

Admission for the Centerpiece Film program is $15.00 General and $12.00 Student / Seniors 65+ / Disabled Person. Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT THOMAS WOSCHITZ

Born in Klagenfurt, Thomas Woschitz studied at the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia in Rome, Italy. He directed several short films, such as “People’s Pockets and Bleeding Noses” (1995) and “Blindgänger - Duds” (1996) and the medium-length film “Girls and Cars (2004), which have all been shown at numerous festivals, including Venice, Locarno and the Festival de Cannes. He also realized experimental film installations like “Oil Film” (1994) and “Loop’s End” (2003), or the imaginative sound film “moving landscape©“ (2002). In 2005, in collaboration with the band Naked Lunch, the music film “Closing Time” was created. Woschitz has also worked as a film editor on “La Capa Gira” and „Mio Cognato“, both by Alessandro Piva. After “Universalove”, he is now working on the feature film "The Robbers – Reloaded."

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2) runs May 14 to 23, 2009 in various venues across the city of Stockton, California, and will feature over 120 films from 36 countries. As California Central Valley's preeminent celebration of global cinema, SJIFF2 will feature: international premieres; a diverse collection of new and innovative films from around the world; Animania - a cinematic spotlight on animation; tributes to celebrated and rising filmmakers; an exhilarating collection of the world's top short films; educational programs; guest filmmakers from around the world; family events; galas and festive parties; and diverse programs for all ages.

Official Festival Website: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09
Films: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/films.html
Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS), home of the San Joaquin International Film Festival, celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals, films, and educational programs. For 2009, in addition to the international film festival in May, SJFS launched an ambitious year of events that includes the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival in January, the 1st California International Documentary Film Festival in the Fall, year-round cinema programs, special events, and educational programs. SJFS is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking; and to bringing the world's best cinema to the culturally-rich, Valley communities.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival Unveils First 100 Films

Published: Friday, March 13, 2009

Stockton, California, USA - The San Joaquin Film Society (SJFS) is proud to announce the first 100 films of its flagship 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2), set to take place May 14 to 23, 2009 in the city of Stockton, California. The festival will ultimately present over 120 works from 36 countries during its 10-day run. Opening Night Film, Closing Night Film, Centerpiece Film, tributes and select special programs are yet to be announced.

World Panorama

- "1000 Journals" - Dir. Andrea Kreuzhage, 88'
- "Cherry Blossoms" - Dir. Dorris Dörrie, 127'
- "Donkey In Lahore" - Dir. Faramarz K-Rahber, 117'
- "Goodnight Irene" - Dir. Paolo Marinou-Blanco, 99'
- "Katrina's Children" - Dir. Laura Belsey, 85'
- "Lullabye Before I Wake" - Dir. Nate Pantumsinchai, 107'
- "Martha and Her Flying Grandfather" - Dir. Christian Schwochow, 60'
- "Megunica" - Dir. Lorenzo Fonda, 82'
- "Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority" - Dir. Kimberlee Bassford, 54'
- "Personality" - India, 85'

Animania - Features

- "Idiots and Angels" - Dir. Bill Plympton, 78'
- "Sita Sings the Blues" - Dir. Nina Paley, 82'

With an emphasis on supporting new and rising filmmakers, the San Joaquin Film Society has curated a highly-selective collection of some of the world's most celebrated short films and newest discoveries in filmmaking.

Special Programme Shorts

- "Bombay Skies" - Dir. Rita Rani, 21'
- "For Asia"- Dir. Fran Borgia, 7'

Animania - Shorts

- "The East Wind (Der Ostwind)" - Dir. Kohl Glass, 11'
- " Hot Dog" - Dir. Bill Plympton, 6'
- "The Inquisitive Snail, Dir. Flemish Beauty, 1'
- "KuyGorozh" - Dir. Sergey Merinov, 14'
- "Lavatory-Lovestory" - Dir. Konstantin Bronzit, 10'
- "Like Me, Only Better" - Dir. Martin Pickles, 6'
- "Veterinarian" - Dir. Signe Baumane, 7'

Animania - Shorts II

- "Chicory 'n' Coffee" - Dir. Dusan Kastelic, 9'
- "Heather" - Dir. Ed Suckling, 6'
- "Dog Days" - Dir. Geoffroy de Crécy, 16'
- "Blue Fly Out Blue" - Dir. Jack (Ming-Huei) Shih, 13'
- "Last Time in Clerkenwell" - Dir. Alex Budovsky, 4'
- "Mexican Standoff" - Dir. Bill Plympton, 4'
- "Sebastian's Voodoo - Dir. Joaquin Baldwin, 5'

Discovery

- "Haber" - Dir. Daniel Ragussis, 34'
- "Oh, Simone" - Dir. Stuart Gatt, 10'
- "On the Line" - Dir. Reto Caffi, 30'
- "Tell-Tale Heart" - Dir. Robert Eggers, 21'

Discovery II

- "155 Mile" - Dir. Lee Hyung-Suk, 25'
- "Beijing Haze" - Dir. J.P. Chan, 10'
- "Dugong" - Dir. Erin White, 18'
- "Sikumi" - Dir. Andrew Okpeaha MacLean, 15'
- "Terminus" - Dir. Trevor Cawood, 9'
- "Under My Garden" - Dir. Andrea Lodovichetti, 20'

Live, Love, Laugh!

- "Cinema Paradise" - Dir. Kim Tai-Yong, 4'
- "Feelings and Stuff" - Dir. Samuli Valkama, 12'
- "The Humberville Poetry Slam" - Dir. Emily C. Chang, Dan De Lorenzo, 18'
- "The Job" - Dir. Jonathan Browning, 4'
- "Memphis Calling" - Dir. Colin Mitchell, 12'
- "Song of Slomon" - Dir. Emmanuel Shirinian, 16'
- "Sombrero" - Dir. Nathaniel Atcheson, 12'

Rite of Passage

- "Ancestor's Eyes" - Dir. Kalani Queypo, 15'
- "As I Lay Dying" - Dir. Ho Yuhang, 10'
- "Reflections" - Dir. Ho Tzu-Nyen, 14'
- "The White Dress" - Dir. Vanessa Gildea, 4'

Rite of Passage II

- "Dolls" - Dir. Randy Caspersen, 10'
- "Kid" - Dir. Miguel Alvarez, 13'
- "Megatron" - Dir. Anca Puiu, 15'
- "The Pond" - Dir. Sonja Phillips, 16'

For Kids of All Ages

- "Anita's Africa" - Dir. Beverley Reid, 18'
- "Dorme" - Dir. Sylvia Binsfeld, 7'
- "Goldfish" - Dir. Joe Wein, 13'
- "Love in the Summertime" - Dir. Paul Wie, 14'
- "My Dad Ralph" - Dir. Nicholas Wong, 11'
- "The Moth and the Firefly" - Dir. Aron Epstein, Daniel Stedman, 5'
- "Papiroflexia" - Dir. Joaquin Baldwin, 3'
- "Stella and the Storks" - Dir. Sheri Hagen, 21'
- "Triple Concerto in D. Minor" - Dir. Daniel Mitchell, 8'
- "The Watchman and the Little Girl" - Dir. Christoph Englert, 10'

True Stories

- "If a Body Meets a Body" - Dir. Brian Davis, 20'
- "John" - Dir. Eveleen Hsu, 18'

Film + Art + Lab

- "A Taste of Home" - Dir. David Yun, 8'
- "Angelica Fuentes: The Schindler's House" - Dir. Sasha Pirker, 11'
- "Flying Lessons" - Dir. Rosane Chamecki, Phil Harder, Andrea Lerner, 5'
- "P.S. Beirut, Chapter One" - Dir. Michael H. Shamberg, 8'
- "The Pain with Being Thirsty" - Dir. David Yun, 7'
- "Remote Intimacy" - Dir. Sylvia Schedelbauer, 15'
- "Slow" - Dir. Kurt Kuenne, 8'

Broken and Torn

- "The Blind Revolution" - Dir. Alvaro Zendejas, 17'
- "Bookie" - Dir. Bao Tran, 18'
- "Catching Rats" - Dir. Vero Shamo-Garcia, 14'
- "Hirsute" - Dir. A.J. Bond, 14'
- "The Kolaborator" - Dir. Chris Bessounian, 14'
- "Short Term 12" - Dir. Destin Daniel Cretton, 22'

Passionate Trouble

- "27,000 Days" - Dir. Naveen Singh, 10'
- "Appassionata" - Dir. Mirko Echghi-Ghamsari, 16'
- "The State of Sunshine" - Dir. Z. Eric Yang, 23'
- "The Tournament" - Dir. Velia Giannuzzi, 15'

Power of Love

- "Cry Me a River" - Dir. Jia Zhangke, 20'
- "Fortune Hunter" - Dir. Thom Harp, 20'
- "Just Make Believe" - Dir. Jadrien Steele, 12'
- "Struck" - Dir. Taron Lexton, 7'
- "Watching It Rain" - Dir. Elisa Miller, 13'

Power of Love II

- "364 Cranes" - Dir. Vincent Lin, 15'
- "The Aviatrix" - Dir. Toddy Burton, 10'
- "Goodbye Variations" - Dir. Luka Rukavina, 8'
- "The Phone Book" - Dir. Kurt Kuenne, 22'
- "Side Effects" - Dir. Chuck Rose, 8'
- "Tony Zoreil" - Dir. Valentin Potier, 20'

An Evening with Kimuak

- "7:35 De La Mañana" - Dir. Nacho Vigalondo, 8'
- "Asämara" - Dir. Jon Garaño, Raúl López, 9'
- "Berbaoc" - Dir. Taller de animación de Arteleku, 5'
- "Éramos Pocos" - Dir. Borja Cobeaga, 16'
- "La Primera Vez" - Dir. Borja Cobeaga, 11'
- "Not a Good Idea" - Dir. Ugo Sanz, 13'
- "Taxi?" - Dir. Telmo Esnal, 6'

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Official Festival Website: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09
Films: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/films.html
Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS), home of the San Joaquin International Film Festival, celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals, films, and educational programs. For 2009, in addition to the international film festival in May, SJFS launched an ambitious year of events that includes the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival in January, the 1st California International Documentary Film Festival in the Fall, year-round cinema programs, special events, and educational programs. SJFS is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking; and to bringing the world's best cinema to the culturally-rich, Valley communities.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, March 2, 2009

SJFS ANNOUNCES CINEMA ROOM MARCH 2009 LINE-UP, OPENING WITH "KASSIM THE DREAM," MARCH 5TH, 7PM, FILMS ON AFRICAN EXPERIENCES AND AWARD-WINNING SHORTS FROM SJIFF 2008

Stockton, California, USA - The San Joaquin Film Society (SJFS) is proud to announce the March 2009 Line-Up of its innovative, year-round Cinema Room program: opening with multiple award-winning, documentary film, "Kassim the Dream," from Executive Producer Forest Whitaker and Director Kief Davidson; featuring films focusing on the African global Diaspora and contemporary African experiences; and celebrating with award-winning short films from the 2008 San Joaquin International Film Festival.

For information on films, programs, trailers, and tickets, visit www.sjiff.org/cinemaroom

The Matinée Movie Lounge is located within the Stockton Empire Theatre complex in Stockton's Miracle Mile District, at 1825 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, California, 95204. Seats are very limited. Tickets are $6.00 to $10.00 each. Ticket information: visit www.sjiff.org/tickets, call (209) 518 9882, or pay at the door.

KASSIM THE DREAM - OPENING NIGHT
• March 5, 2009, 7:00PM

"Kassim the Dream" (87 min., 2008, Uganda, USA) from American director Kief Davidson and executive producer, Oscar®-winning Forest Whitaker, will make its California Central Valley Premiere at the Opening Night of the San Joaquin Film Society's year-round Cinema Room program, at Matinée Movie Lounge, on Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 7:00PM.

In 2008, "Kassim the Dream" was honored with some of the world's leading documentary film awards:

• Winner, Audience Award, AFI Fest (American Film Institute)
• Winner, Grand Jury Prize, AFI Fest (American Film Institute)
• Winner, AFM Silver Docs Award, SilverDocs
• Winner, DOC U Award, International Documentary Festival Amsterdam (IDFA)
• Nominated, the prestigious Distinguished Documentary Achievement, International Documentary Association (IDA) Awards.

Synopsis: "This is the story of World Champion Boxer, Kassim "The Dream" Ouma - born in Uganda, kidnapped by the rebel army and trained to be a child soldier at the age of 6. When the rebels took over the government, Kassim became an army soldier who was forced to commit many horrific atrocities, making him both a victim and perpetrator. He soon discovered the army's boxing team and realized the sport was his ticket to freedom. After 12 years of warfare, Kassim defected from Africa and arrived in the United States. Homeless and culture shocked, he quickly rose through the boxing ranks and became Junior Middleweight Champion of the World. Kassim, now age 27, seems to have obtained the American Dream with his jovial nature, fame and hip hop lifestyle. As Kassim trains for his next world title fight against Jermain Taylor in Little Rock Arkansas, keeping his demons out of the ring becomes increasingly difficult. His desires to reunite with family in Uganda intensify when Kassim's only hope for a safe return is a military pardon from the president and government responsible for his abduction." (source: www.kassimthedream.com)

DREAMS OF DUST
• March 12, 2009, 6:30PM

"Dreams of Dust / Rêves de poussière" (87 min., Burkina Faso, France, Canada, 2006) from French director Laurent Salgues was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize of the 2007 Sundance Film Festival.

Synopsis: "Mocktar, a Nigerien peasant, comes looking for work in Essakane, a dusty gold mine in Northeast Burkina Faso, Africa, where he hopes to forget the past that haunts him. In Essakane, he quickly finds out, the gold rush ended twenty years before, and the inhabitants of this wasteland and strange timelessness manage to exist simply from force of habit. The beautiful Coumba, however, is still courageously struggling to raise her daughter after the death of her family. Mocktar will soon be fighting not only to survive, but also to provide a better future for this mother and her child."

MY AFRICA PROGRAMME
• March 18, 2009, 6:30PM

Experience two candid and powerful documentaries featuring artists, innovators, and cultural advocates, expressing their views and visions of Africa:

"This is My Africa" (50 min., African Continent, UK, 2008) from African-British filmmaker Zina Saro-Wiwa.

Synopsis: " 'This is My Africa' (TIMA) is an award-winning documentary film that is all about showing an alternative [positive] vision of Africa. A vision that is not only about war, corruption, famine and chaos. TIMA features Chiwetel Ejiofor, Jon Snow, Colin Firth, Mourad Mazouz, Yinka Shonibare and many more. Each interviewee is given a questionnaire and all the answers are remixed to provide what could be considered a crash course in African culture."

"The Power of Art: Women Voices in Africa" (51 min., African Continent, UK, 2008) from Canadian filmmaker Claudine Pommier.

Synopsis: "Culture is no longer a static body of knowledge, values, practices and expressions shared and passed on by a community. It is a dynamic reality. "The Power of Art" explores how contemporary African women who choose to be professional artists claim their position, and deal with the stereotypes associated with being an African and a woman. The film also focuses on the role professional artists may play in addressing the challenges women are faced with on the African continent."

AWARD-WINNING SHORTS FROM THE 2008 SAN JOAQUIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
• March 11, 2009, 6:30PM
• March 19, 2009, 6:30PM

Celebrate a vibrant collection of the award-winning short films of the 1st San Joaquin International Film Festival, held in June 2008.

"The Golden Voice" (25 min., Cambodia, USA, 2006) from American director Greg Cahil, SJIFF 2008 Best Narrative Short-Length Film. Synopsis: "Ros Sereysothea (Actress Sophea Pel) was Cambodia's most beloved female rock singer until Pol Pot's nightmarish regime took over the country in 1975. Her enchanting voice, once used to entertain, was now her only chance of survival."

"My Mother Said / Kuna Ni Nanang" (5 min., USA, 2007) from Filipino-American director Jessica Sison, SJIFF 2008 Best Documentary Short-Length Film. Synopsis: "In this day and age, when everything is documented and even cell phones have cameras, one woman has no souvenirs or photos of her beloved mother. Meet Elena Bautista - 101 Years Young on April 19, 2008."

"My Happy End" (6 min., German, 2007) from Annecy International Animated Film Festival Award-winning director Milen Vitanov, SJIFF 2008 Best Animated Short-Length Film. Synopsis: "All dogs chase their tails. A dog once succeeds in catching his own tail. That changes his life as he finds his best friend in it."

"The Drift" (9 min., USA, 2007) from American artist Kelly Sears, SJIFF 2008 Best Experimental Short-Length Film. Synopsis: "A mysterious disappearance on a 1960s space journey launches the counter-culture revolution. Psychedelic Rock, wayward space transmission, radical happenings, rogue scientific research, the space race, high hopes, failed dreams, and bodily levitation all come together in the story of The Drift."

"Aquarium" (17 min., USA, 2007) from American filmmaker Rob Meyer, SJIFF 2008 Best Student Short-Length Film. Synopsis: "At 15, David and his two buddies are the youngest members of the Boston Aquarium Society; they make their way to a monthly meeting, but David has a secret he is reluctant to share."

"The Piano Lesson: A Comedic Musical" (6 min., Canada, 2006) from San Joaquin-born filmmaker Erahm Christopher, SJIFF 2008 Best Local Short-Length Film. Synopsis: "A cheerful nine year old forced by his mother to learn to play the piano. Arriving late and unpracticed, Conrad begins a comic struggle to outwit his haughty old teacher and survive the piano lesson."

ABOUT CINEMA ROOM

SJFS Cinema Room is a unique exhibition partnership between the San Joaquin Film Society and Cibo di Vino Restaurant - Matinée Movie Lounge, to year-round global cinema film programs and special events within the intimate settings of the Matinée Movie Lounge. SJFS presents a richly-diverse collection of films, special screenings, shorts collections, guest filmmakers, mixed-media showcases, and creative discussions. Ticket prices vary depending on show.

For information on films, programs and tickets, visit www.sjiff.org/cinemaroom

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY

The new San Joaquin Film Society, Inc., (SJFS) is the home of the San Joaquin International Film Festival, California Central Valley's preeminent celebration of global cinema. For 2009, in addition to the international film festival in May, SJFS launched an ambitious year of events that includes the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival in January, the 1st California International Documentary Film Festival in the Fall, the year-round Cinema Room film programs, Cinema Italia series in February, the 1st San Joaquin Jewish Film Festival in June, special events, and educational programs. SJFS is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking; and to bringing the world's best cinema to the culturally-rich, Valley communities.

For more information, visit official website at www.sjiff.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, January 16, 2009

Contact:
Sophoan Sorn, Founder
Official Website: www.sjiff.org

BRIEANNE JANSEN TO SPEAK AT SJCFF 2009 YOUNG ACTOR'S STUDIO PROGRAM, EMPIRE THEATRE, JANUARY 18TH, 2PM

Stockton, California, USA - The San Joaquin Film Society is proud to announce that San Joaquin actress, Brieanne Jansen, 11 (of "Kit Kittredge: An American Girl"), will be a guest speaker at the interactive Young Actor's Studio program of the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival, on Sunday, January 18, 2009 at 2:00PM. Free admission.

ABOUT BRIEANNE JANSEN

Brieanne Jansen, born in Ontario, Canada, moved to California with her family in the summer of 2001. Brieanne discovered her love of the arts, after suffering through a five-year period of post traumatic stress disorder, resulting from a hostage situation that she and her family endured shortly after relocating to the United States. Always a fan of the popular American Girl brand, she was cast in "Kit Kittredge: An American Girl" after finding an open casting call on the American Girl website. Directed by Patricia Rozema, produced by Julia Roberts, and written by Valerie Tripp, it was the first American Girl feature film to have a theatrical release across North America. Brieanne Jansen's hobbies are reading, writing, and singing. With her singing, she has competed locally and regionally - where she recently took top spots in competitions in Northern California, including Lathrop's South County Idol. Manteca Idol, and Bay Area Youth Focus. At the end of Manteca Idol, she was awarded a recording opportunity in recognition of being the first person under 13 to complete the competition. A goodwill advocate with a deep passion in giving back to her community, Brieanne has actively raised $9,000 and 3,000 pounds of food for Second Harvest Food Bank since April 2008. Her next endeavor is to pursue her acting and singing career, professionally.

Regarding Sunday's Young Actor's Studio program, Brieanne Jansen states, "I am extremely excited to have the opportunity to be able to share my dreams and my magical experiences on a movie set, with kids of all ages from my community."

Admission is free. Space is limited, at first-come, first served basis. To reserve floor seating, view clips, and more information, visit www.sjiff.org/sjcff09/YAS.html

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN CHILDREN'S FILM FESTIVAL

The Valley's 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival (SJCFF 2009) takes place with eight programs on January 16 to 18, 2009 at the Stockton Empire Theatre (1825 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204). Presented by the San Joaquin Film Society, SJCFF 2009 opens with the California Premiere of the English Language Version of the animated masterpiece "Azur and Asmar" (World Premiere at Festival de Cannes) by acclaimed French animator Michel Ocelot, and featuring a vibrant collection of 21 new films from Belgium, Estonia, France, Hungary, Singapore, Switzerland, and the United States of America, making their North American, USA, California and Central Valley premieres. Official Selection also includes award-winning documentaries "Darius Goes West" and "Going on 13" (World Premiere at Tribeca) and the World of Shorts with 18 short films, including Student Oscar® winner "Zoologic" and Festival de Cannes Short Films Corner-selected "His Good Will" and "Papiroflexia." Be inspired through the Young Filmmakers' Workshop with hands-on activities and cinema insights, a captivating Young Actor's Studio conversation with San Joaquin actress Brieanne Jansen (from "Kit Kittridge: All American Girl"), and an intriguing conversation with directors Kristy Guevara-Flanagan and Dawn Valadez of "Going on 13" on Closing Night.

Films selected for the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival have been screened and awarded at over 300 prestigious and noteworthy film festivals around the world - and are showcased for the very first time within California's multi-cultural Central Valley to a unique audience of children, families and kids of all ages!

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY

The new San Joaquin Film Society (SJFS) is the home of the San Joaquin International Film Festival, California Central Valley's premier celebration of global cinema. For 2009, in addition to the international film festival in May, SJFS will launch an ambitious year of events that will include the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival in January, the 1st California International Documentary Film Festival in the Fall, the year-round Cinema Room film programs, Cinema Italia series in February, Jewish Film Week in June, Greek Cinema series in September, special events, and educational programs. SJFS is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking; and to bringing the world's best cinema to the culturally-rich, Valley communities.

For more information, visit official website at www.sjiff.org

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